Right of passage Thursday, December 22, 2016 The provincial government introduced the Supporting Ontario Trails Act last year. This winter, landowners and snowmobilers continue to debate the use of Ontario's rural trails. Photos and captions by Mary Baxter. The winter snowfall means the return of snowmobiles to the extensive network of trails across the province. But preparation for the 2016-17 season has been challenging. Some farmers have been reluctant to sign on to hosting a trail in light of the Supporting Ontario Trails Act, which obtained royal assent in June. Initial concerns with the bill focused on the issue of property easements. Other farmers worry about trespassers – like the individuals who use snowmobile trails as walking trails or horseback-riding trails. Ontario snowmobile clubs continue to look for solutions and to strengthen relationships with rural landowners. In November, Graham Snyder, who farms near Breslau in Waterloo Region, was busy putting up markers for the two snowmobile trails that cross his property. Crop loss can be a concern for farmers, says Graham Snyder, a former vice-president of the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs. He notes the federation does have tools to reimburse for crop loss. Markings on snowmobile trails include signs such as this one, which warns users of their responsibilities and liabilities. Graham Snyder and his dog, Spud, are pictured with the sign. Fast and reliable Internet: are we getting close on the farm? Ontario dairy cow tests positive for rabies
Sunflower farming in Ontario Tuesday, August 19, 2025 While Manitoba dominates sunflower production in Canada—accounting for about 90 percent of the national output (https://oggardenonline.com/where-in-canada-are-sunflowers-grown.html)—Ontario is home to a growing number of sunflower farms. These farms are often smaller in scale and... Read this article online
2025 Livestock Tax Deferral Regions Announced Tuesday, August 19, 2025 Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) has published the initial list of prescribed regions eligible for the 2025 Livestock Tax Deferral provision, a key support measure for Canadian livestock producers grappling with the impacts of extreme weather. “As we continue to see the very... Read this article online
Winter wheat in Ontario: A resilient crop for a sustainable future Tuesday, August 19, 2025 Winter wheat has long been a staple in Ontario’s agricultural landscape, offering both economic and environmental benefits to farmers across the province. Grown primarily in southwestern Ontario, this crop plays a vital role in crop rotation systems, soil health, and food... Read this article online
Better Soil Health Improves Rain Absorption Monday, August 18, 2025 The OMAFA Fieldcropnews.com team recently held demonstrations regarding how soil management can greatly affect the amount of rainfall absorbed into the soil for crop use. This is especially important for corn, soybean, and wheat growers facing dry spells or intense summer storms. In early... Read this article online
Farm ponds and the trouble with algae Monday, August 18, 2025 Farm ponds are more than just tranquil features on rural landscapes—they’re essential tools for water management, livestock care, irrigation, and biodiversity—especially in North America. They are also considered to be a key agricultural asset outside North America, especially in... Read this article online